Detroit City Airport, presently known as Coleman A. Young Municipal Airport, holds a significant place in the history of Detroit aviation. For over two decades, it served as the primary air gateway to the region. The journey began in 1922 when city officials initiated the search for a suitable airport location, ultimately selecting a 263-acre site near Conner Creek on the city’s east side. Five years later, history was made with the formal dedication of the Detroit City Airport Terminal in 1927, marking the arrival of the first aircraft on October 14th. By 1929, the first hangar was constructed, and by the 1930s, Detroit City Airport had ascended to become the premier airport in the Detroit metropolitan area.
This airport maintained its primary status until 1947 when major airlines shifted their operations to Willow Run Airport and later to Wayne County Metropolitan Airport. Detroit City Airport then transitioned into a vital hub for pilot training and emerged as a leading center for private and corporate aviation nationwide. It continued to host some commercial flights until the year 2000.
However, its location adjacent to Gethsemane Cemetery presented challenges. The City of Detroit faced limitations in expanding the runway safety zone to accommodate larger, modern aircraft. This constraint led to the discontinuation of all remaining commercial flights in 2000. Since then, the City of Detroit has ceased staffing the airport’s fire station, reduced investments in building improvements, and refrained from offering long-term leases to corporate aviation companies. The future of Coleman A. Young Municipal Airport remains a subject of discussion, with options ranging from renewed investment to potential closure.
Despite these challenges, Detroit City Airport continues to be a significant base for numerous private and corporate jets. Notably, the airport experienced an impressive surge in activity in 2017, with nearly a 40% increase in usage, coinciding with the growth of downtown business activities and the opening of Little Caesar’s Arena. This resurgence underscores the airport’s enduring relevance and strategic location within Detroit.
